FIFA World Cup 2026: Messi, Ferran Torres and Cape Verde’s Lopes Among Nominees for Goal of the Tournament

Cloud TV Sports Desk: FIFA has officially opened voting for the Goal of the Tournament at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, inviting football fans around the world to choose the competition’s most spectacular strike. Supporters can cast their votes on FIFA’s official website, where 12 outstanding goals from the tournament have been shortlisted.

Advertisement

The nominees include memorable strikes from the group stage to the final, featuring stunning solo runs, long-range efforts, spectacular finishes and match-winning goals that defined the tournament.

Ferran Torres’ World Cup-winning Goal Makes the Shortlist

Spain forward Ferran Torres has been nominated for his extra-time winner in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Argentina.

Advertisement

Torres scored the decisive goal after receiving a perfectly timed pass from Nico Williams, securing a historic 1-0 victory for Spain and helping La Roja lift their second FIFA World Cup title. The goal is widely regarded as one of the defining moments of the tournament.

Messi, Alvarez and Cape Verde’s Lopes Also in the Running

Runners-up Argentina have two goals among the nominees.

Lionel Messi earned a nomination for the opening goal of his hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria during the group stage. The strike showcased the veteran forward’s trademark composure and precision.

Argentina midfielder Julian Alvarez also features on the shortlist for his spectacular long-range goal against Switzerland in the quarter-finals.

One of the surprise inclusions is Sydney Lopes Cabral of Cape Verde. His stunning extra-time long-range strike against Argentina in the Round of 16 captured global attention and has been recognised among the tournament’s finest goals.

Bellingham, Haaland and Mbappe Feature on the List

Several other international stars have also been nominated for the prestigious award. The remaining nominees are:

• Jude Bellingham (England)
• Erling Haaland (Norway)
• Kerim Alajbegovic (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
• Wilson Isidor (Haiti)
• Elijah Just (New Zealand)
• Daizen Maeda (Japan)
• Kylian Mbappe (France)
• Eldor Shomurodov (Uzbekistan)

FIFA confirmed that the Goal of the Tournament will be decided entirely through fan voting. Once the voting period ends, the goal receiving the highest number of votes will be officially crowned the Best Goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.